Bisque Kestner 221 Character Googly Eyes Doll Signed Composition Body

This example is a modern reproduction doll made from a mold taken from an German Kestner number 221 doll. The head is made of bisque. It's hand painted decoration is very well done. The accompanying reproduction composition body is jointed, so the doll can be posed.

The original Kestner marks show on the back of the head, "MADE IN GERMANY J.D.K. 221 GES." These came from the original doll when the mold was cast. Underneath the marks taken from the original is the name of the artist who made this copy, and the number '75' for the year it was made. Even though this doll is clearly marked on the back of her head with the modern doll artist's mark, it would be just as easy to make copies from the same mold that had no other marks other those of the Kestner company.

Just as was true in the early 20th century, 'Googly' dolls have again become popular, and prices for authentically old dolls have risen dramatically. If you collect only older or antique original dolls, with an eye toward future value, remember new versions are being made today. Don't be taken in only by a sweet, well painted face on a modern-made reproduction. Skilled crafters can recreate the look of any feature of a vintage or antique doll, including Googly dolls. Many have done exactly that and will continue to do so.

As these types of artist-made reproductions begin to gain some amount of actual age it may become increasingly difficult to differentiate them from the originals they mimic. Especially if dressed in old clothing, as in this example. Clothing and accessories can help hide the fact the doll they accompany is not of the same age. Always ask to examine a collectible doll's body or, if buying online, expect to be shown visible characteristics present on the body that helped the seller identify it as old and authentic. Never be ashamed or afraid to ask questions or to see more pictures, prior to purchasing a doll advertised as 'old.'